Opportunity makes us known to others, but more to ourselves.

There are some people upon whom their very faults and failings sit gracefully; and there are others whose very excellencies and accomplishments do not become them.

If we never flattered ourselves we should have but scant pleasure.

We come altogether fresh and raw into the several stages of life, and often find ourselves without experience, despite our years.

The height of ability consists in a thorough knowledge of the real value of things, and of the genius of the age in which we live.

There are no events so disastrous that adroit men do not draw some advantage from them, nor any so fortunate that the imprudent cannot turn to their own prejudice.

Minds of moderate caliber ordinarily condemn everthing which is beyond their range.